Eleven COGites met at the Queanbeyan Swimming Centre at 8:00am, including some new members who were very welcome. Luckily the weather didn’t threaten, although it remained cloudy through most of the outing. Previous rain had encouraged the leeches and they were out in force.
Our first port of call was Axel Avenue, where the birding was certainly very good. The probable highlight of the trip was a male Rose Robin that treated us all to very good views. Rufous Fantails were definitely out in force as were lots of young Golden Whistlers. A Superb Lyrebird and Eastern Whipbird remained out of sight, as did a frustrating Black-faced Monarch that only two lucky members got glimpses of. The mystery bird of the day was a strong calling bird that sounded like a Blackbird. If it was, we reckoned it to be a bit out of place in the wet, remote habitat.
At Lowden Forest Park, we had morning tea in the company of some trail bike riders. Highlights from two short walks we did in the Forest were: a Red-browed Treecreeper, a Flame Robin, more Rufous Fantails, and lots of eucalypts flowering with six species of honeyeater enjoying the food source.
Our group acknowledged that valued COG member Tom Green, who died just a few weeks ago, had planned to lead this field trip, as Tallaganda was one of his favourite places. In proceeding with the trip, we honoured his memory, and recalled the fine contributions that Tom had made to COG and to the community more broadly. Thanks to David McDonald for stepping in and leading this outing.
Tobias Hayashi